Mutations Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is a mutation?
A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence, which can lead to changes in proteins and traits.
What are the three main types of mutations?
Point mutations, frameshift mutations, and chromosomal mutations.
What is a point mutation?
A change in a single nucleotide, such as a substitution, insertion, or deletion.
What is a frameshift mutation?
A mutation that shifts the reading frame of a gene, often caused by insertions or deletions.
What are chromosomal mutations?
Large-scale mutations that involve the structure or number of chromosomes, such as deletions, duplications, inversions, and translocations.
What is a silent mutation?
A mutation that does not affect the protein due to redundancy in the genetic code.
What is a missense mutation?
A mutation that results in a different amino acid being incorporated into a protein.
What is a nonsense mutation?
A mutation that causes an early stop codon, potentially leading to a nonfunctional protein.
How can mutations lead to genetic disorders?
Mutations in a single gene or chromosome number can cause disorders like cystic fibrosis, hemophilia, sickle cell disease, or Down syndrome.
What is a deletion mutation?
A mutation where one or more base pairs are removed, potentially causing a frameshift.
What is an insertion mutation?
A mutation where additional base pairs are added, potentially leading to a frameshift.
How do mutations impact an organism?
Mutations can be beneficial, harmful, or neutral, depending on how they affect the organism’s survivability.
